Intel Cancels Several Phone Chips

Intel said it will discontinue a handful of processors meant for smartphones and tablets as it continues to shift its business toward more profitable products. In particular, Intel has cancelled plans to sell three of its SoFIA processor-baseband combination chips. The company also plans to can its ARM-based Broxton tablet processor. Two of the three SoFIA modules included support for LTE, which Intel has been slow to add to its lineup. Intel has struggled to compete against industry veteran Qualcomm and others. Early this month Intel announced a strategic shift away from mobile devices; instead, Intel plans to focus on products for PCs, servers, and the internet of things. Intel is also in the process of cutting some 11,000 jobs to trim expenses as it transforms its focus.